KOT IN THE ACT: SHOWS YOU CAN'T MISS

Kot In The Act: Shows You Can't Miss

1. The National: These Brooklynites epitomize slow-burn intensity on their third album of brooding mid-tempo rock, "Boxer," Thursday at Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., $15; 773-549-4140.

2. Alan Jackson: Nashville gets slammed for abandoning the songcraft and passion at the core of the country legacy, but Jackson proves that a modern-day country act doesn't have to be a hack to sell big numbers. His plain-spoken songs and understated melodies are a throwback to the Grand Ol' Opry greats. Saturday with Brooks and Dunn at First Midwest Bank Ampitheatre, Tinley Park, $30.75-$70.75, 312-559-1212.

3. Interpol: Stylish New York City quartet returns with its third album and trademark sound very much intact -- taut guitars, wired rhythms and doomy baritone vocals, Sunday at Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., $30 (sold out); 773-549-4140.

4. Koko Taylor: The still-vibrant queen of Chicago blues headlines opening night of the 24th annual Chicago Blues Festival with a performance that should draw on classics such as "Wang Dang Doodle" as well as sampling her first album in seven years, "Old School," Thursday at Petrillo Music Shell in Grant Park, free; 312-744-3315.